Puran Sheti: The dying agricultural wisdom of Goa

WHERE THE RIVER IRRIGATES FIELDS

In Goa, Puran Sheti refers to a unique traditional practice of silt-based agriculture, where farmers harness nutrient-rich river silt, deposited during the monsoons, to cultivate seasonal crops.

RIVER TRADITION

In the past, 27 villages — from Uste in Sattari to Ganje in Ponda — actively practiced Puran Sheti, forming a vibrant agricultural network rooted in river-based farming traditions.

DEEP ROOTS IN MHADEI BASIN

This practice was once widespread across Goa’s river basins, especially in the Mhadei basin, where communities relied on seasonal floods to enrich their fields with fertile silt.

SILT AND SOUL

Rivers brought nutrient-rich silt during the monsoons, creating naturally fertile fields that were perfect for growing paddy, without the need for chemical inputs.

FIELDS FOR THE LANDLESS

It is mostly the landless villagers and those lacking other sources of livelihood, who practiced Puran Sheti. The river water naturally irrigated the fields as needed.

CHECK DAMS AND FLOODPLAINS

Farmers built check dams to regulate water flow and harnessed floodplains for cultivation, maximising the natural irrigation and fertility provided by the rivers.

FENCING WITH NATURE

Eco-friendly bio-fences, crafted from natural materials, were used to protect fields from cattle and wild herbivores, preserving crops without harming the environment.

FARMING WITHOUT HARM

No chemical fertilisers or pesticides were used, keeping the rivers clean and protecting the surrounding ecosystem and wildlife.

MODERN WALLS, FADING WAYS

Vasant bandharas, built by the Water Resources Department, raise river levels, disrupting the natural flow and making Puran Sheti increasingly difficult to practice.

HARMONY WITH THE RIVER

Puran Sheti was an example of a harmonious relationship with the river, a model of sustainable agriculture and a unique riverine culture.

BLESSINGS FROM THE DIVINE

Farmers from the locality still offer their first harvest to folk deities and the Mother Goddess as a gesture of gratitude.

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